Bontrager's Big Hit Wheelset

WHAT:Bontrager Big Earl HOW MUCH: $480 to $500 WHERE: www.bontrager.com

Big Earl wheels are designed for the funriders among us: burly, tough and highly adaptable. Built using 32-millimeter rims and double-butted 14/15-gauge spokes in a two-cross pattern—a design that Bontrager believes provides a stronger bracing angle for spokes—the wheels are incredibly tough and relatively light.

The 32 spokes are laced to Bontrager’s unique Big Earl hubs, which can be used on almost every bike on the market. With an adaptor, riders can switch from a standard six-bolt rotor to a Saint-splined rotor on both front and rear hubs. The front hub comes equipped with a 20-millimeter through-axle, while the 135-millimeter rear can switch from a standard quick release to 12-millimeter through-axle or Saint axle.

Thrashed at all the North Shore’s main attractions, the Big Earls pulled through without a wobble. Day after day, they were stiff, stout and bomber. Although 2,160 grams is farily light for a freeride wheel and the two-cross lacing pattern had us a little skeptical, the Big Earls proved reliable, performing without a hitch. And because the rims are eyeleted and the nipples are brass, truing was painless.